Perl scripts are powerful text-processing programs commonly used for web development, server automation, and data manipulation. When running on a hosting server, they enable dynamic website functionality beyond basic HTML.

Key characteristics of Perl scripts include:

• File extension: Typically .pl or .cgi
• Execution method: Run on the server before sending output to browsers
• Common uses: Form processing, database interaction, email handling

To run Perl scripts on most hosting platforms, you need:

1. Proper file permissions (usually 755)
2. Correct #!/usr/bin/perl shebang line
3. CGI-enabled directory or specific file extensions

Important considerations: Perl scripts must be secure to prevent vulnerabilities. Always validate user input and avoid system calls with unsanitized data. Most modern hosting supports Perl, but check your provider's documentation for specific requirements.

For beginners, start with simple scripts and test in a development environment before deploying to production. Many hosting control panels include Perl management tools to simplify configuration.